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Philadelphia, 16 May, 1776.
SIR,
As I imagine this will meet you on the road to this place, I waive making any mention of public matters, except that it is the wish of Congress you would, if consistent with the good of the service, order one battalion from. New York to be posted at Aniboy, in the Jerseys, agreeably to the inclosed resolve.
General Gates arrived this morning; soon after which I was honored with your favor by post, which I laid before Congress; and, as they expect you so soon here, I imagine they will defer consulting General Gates, and wait your arrival.
Your favor of the 20th instant I received this morning, and cannot help expressing the very great pleasure it would afford both Mrs. Hancock and my self to have the happiness of accommodating you during your stay in this city. As the house I live in is large and roomy, it will be entirely in your power to live in that manner you should wish. Mrs. Washington may be as retired as she pleases while under inoculation, and Mrs. Hancock will esteem it an honor to have Mrs. Washington inoculated in her house ; and, as I am informed Mr. Randolph has not any lady about his house to take the necessary care of Mrs. Washington, I flatter myself she will be as well attended in my family. In short, Sir, I must take the freedom to repeat my wish, that you would be pleased to condescend to dwell under my roof. I assure you, Sir, I will do all in my power to render your stay agreeable, and my house shall be entirely at your disposal. I must, however, submit this to your determination, and only add that you will peculiarly gratify Mrs. Hancock and myself in affording me an opportunity of convincing you of this truth, that I am, with every sentiment of regard for you and your connections, and with much esteem, dear Sir, your faithful and most obedient and humble servant,
P. S. Fessenden is complaining for the want of money; I have advanced him sixteen dollars, which you will please to order him to account for.
More Resources
- John Hancock
- Source:
- Correspondence of the American Revolution; Being Letters of Eminent Men to George Washington, from the Time of His Taking Command of the Army to the End of His Presidency, Volume I., Jared Sparks, 1853
